ITV documentary showing Medway celebrity chef Gary Rhodes last hours before death to be aired this weekend
12:18, 14 February 2020
updated: 13:44, 14 February 2020
Footage of celebrity chef Gary Rhodes' last hours before he died are set to be shown in a new ITV documentary.
The 59-year-old, from Medway, was filming a cookery show in Dubai back in November when he collapsed and hit his head before later dying in hospital from a subdural hematoma.
On Saturday ITV are airing a tribute to him to celebrating his life, and have included footage of his last day.
The clips and pictures from Gary Rhodes: The First Rock Star Chef show the father-of-two on top of sand dunes in the United Arab Emirates - where he moved in 2010 to set up a steakhouse - before his sudden death.
A statement from Mr Rhodes family after his death was revealed said: "In order to end painful speculation surrounding the sudden passing of our beloved Gary Rhodes OBE, the Rhodes family can confirm that after a successful day shooting with Rock Oyster Media for ITV here in Dubai, Gary returned home in a very happy mood for a peaceful evening with his wife Jennie."
"After dinner, Gary unfortunately collapsed in their residence and was rushed to hospital but unfortunately passed away due to subdural hematoma.
"At this time, there are no other details and the family would again request privacy around this very tragic loss and again, thank friends and family for their ongoing support at this time.”
Tributes poured in for the chef last year after the shocking news.
Kent chef Richard Phillips, who trained at Thanet Technical College, where Mr Rhodes also trained, said: "Such sad news. True gentleman and inspiration to the industry."
Michelin starred Tom Kerridge said: "I’m deeply shocked and hugely saddened to hear the tragic news about Gary Rhodes. He is one of the greatest British chefs who almost single handedly put British food on the world stage."
Gary Rhodes returned to his former school in 2008 to launch the Flora Cooking with Schools campaign.
The former Gillingham schoolboy - who went to the Howard School in Rainham and Twydall Junior School - was said to be fit and healthy.
The show will be aired at 11.40am tomorrow.
